The Borobudur Temple is one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destinations, and for a good reason. This magnificent temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why.
The temple is stone and decorated with carvings and statues, making it an impressive sight. What’s even more amazing about the Borobudur Temple is that it was built in the ninth century, making it one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the world.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable cultural experience, visit the Borobudur Temple in Indonesia.
What is the Borobudur Temple?
The Borobudur Temple in Indonesia is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and Indonesia’s most famous cultural heritage icon. The site is one of the world’s most treasured monuments and, as such, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temple is situated on the island of Java, in Magelang, in the Kedu Plain, 40km from Yogyakarta, 53km from Surakarta, and it lies in the shadow of two active volcanoes. It covers 123m² and features intricate and fascinating architecture and design elements.
Much of the Gupta architectural design shows Indian and Hindu influences, but indigenous elements are also. There are 2,672 intricately carved stone relief panels, most of which feature scenes from Buddha’s life and tell the story of Buddhist cosmology.
There are also 504 Buddha figures. The incredible thing about this structure is that no cement or mortar was used; instead, the pieces of stone were fitted together like interlocking pieces of Lego.
About 55,000 cubic meters of stone were used in the construction, and they were joined together with knobs, indentations, and dovetails.
History of Borobudur Temple
The Borobudur Temple Complex is one of the most important Buddhist monuments. It is still not entirely clear why it was built, but many believe it was constructed during the Sailendra dynasty times, between 7 and 8 CE.
Archaeologists say that the reconstruction of Borobudur stopped in 875 CE, and it is thought that King Samaratungga oversaw the work at that time.
There is still much debate among modern historians about what political events led to the construction of Borobudur. However, it is clear that the temple is an incredible feat of engineering and architecture, and it continues to be a popular tourist destination in Indonesia.
Spiritual Significance
The Borobudur temple complex is designed to resemble a lotus and symbolizes the mystical flower of Buddha.
The ten terraces of the building represent the ten stages of becoming a Buddha. Before becoming a Buddha, one must go through these stages. Each stage symbolically represents the universe. The Borobudur temple is also designed to mimic a three-dimensional mandala.
The mandala is used for meditation and represents the universe. The relief sculptures on the temple depict Buddhist beliefs and stories.
They are meant to guide one toward higher states of consciousness. The central stupa on top of the Borobudur temple represents the energizing mind.
How to Get to Borobudur Temple
Visitors can reach the temple by car, bus, or train from Yogyakarta or Jakarta. The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning when it is less crowded. Admission tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the temple.
The temple complex includes several temples and stupas and a museum. Visitors can explore the complex on their own or take a guided tour.
There are also several restaurants and shops located nearby.
If you’re looking to visit the Borobudur Temple in Indonesia, you’ll need to know how to get there. The temple is located in the Magelang Regency of Central Java and can be accessed by road or air.
To reach the temple by road, simply take a bus or taxi from Yogyakarta. The journey will take around two hours.
Alternatively, you can fly to the nearest airport, which is in the city of Solo. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the temple. The journey should take around three hours.
No matter how you choose to get there, be sure to visit this impressive temple and experience its beauty and culture!
Best Time to Visit
As with any other popular tourist destination, the best time to visit Borobudur Temple will vary depending on your interests and priorities.
Generally speaking; however, the temple is busiest during the summer months and early fall when the weather is at its best.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in winter or spring. Keep in mind that the temple is closed every Tuesday for maintenance.
Tips for Visiting the Borobudur Temple
The Borobudur Temple is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia, and for a good reason! The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beauty and intricate carvings.
If you’re planning to visit the temple, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Make sure to dress appropriately. The temple is a sacred place, so visitors should dress modestly. This means no shorts or tank tops!
- Be prepared for a lot of walking. The temple covers a large area, and there are many stairs to climb. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a workout!
- Bring sunscreen and a hat. The temple is located in a hot, tropical climate, and it can be very sunny during the day. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun’s rays!
- Arrive early. The temple gets very crowded later in the day, so try to arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
- Be respectful of the temple and its residents. The Borobudur Temple is a sacred place, and visitors should show respect by not talking loudly or behaving in a disruptive manner.
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What to See at Borobudur Temple
The site has been constructed as one giant stupa with a square base with 6 square lower platforms at the base and three circular platforms on the top. The structure has three ascending levels, which are reached by following a path, corridors, and stairways.
This gradual ascension is symbolic of three levels in Buddhism – the world of desire, the world of form, and the world of formlessness.
The central dome is situated on a platform and surrounded by 72 perforated stupas, which hold 72 statues of Buddha.
These small stupas are bell-shaped, and the perforated openings form a decorative design. The ascending nature of the structure gives it a pyramid-like appearance based on the earlier local punden berundak step pyramid structure.
The temple was constructed in the 9th century during the Syailendra Dynasty. It took about 75 years to complete and remained in use until the 14th century.
The holy site was unused for several centuries as it lay hidden under volcano ash and overgrown vegetation.
Until being rediscovered in 1814 by the island’s Governor-General Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles when the island was under British rule, the monument has been restored and preserved.
The annual Buddhist celebration of Vesak takes place here in May or June when Buddhist pilgrims make the journey to the temple during the full moon. The pilgrimage involves walking between three Buddhist temples, Mendut, Pawon, and Borobudur.
Borobudur Temple Compound Buddhist Pilgrimage
The Borobudur Temple Compound Buddhist Pilgrimage is one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destinations. This massive temple complex is built around a central stupa and features six square platforms topped with 72 small stupas. The walls of the platforms are adorned with nearly 2,500 relief panels depictingakih Temple, Indonesia.
The Borobudur Temple is a sacred place for Buddhists because it is a pilgrimage site. It is said that those who make the journey to the temple and climb to the top of the structure will be rewarded with enlightenment. The temple is also home to many Buddha statues, which are said to bring good luck and protection.
Best Things to Do in Borobudur Temple
When in Borobudur Temple, there are a few things that you can do to make the most out of your visit.
Tour the Mendut Temple
The Mendut Temple is located very close to the Borobudur Temple Compounds and is thought to have been built around the same time. The temple is small compared to Borobudur but is still an impressive sight.
It is dedicated to the three Buddhist brothers, Sangharaja, Sangghabhuwana, and Sangghawisesa, who are said to have introduced Buddhism to Indonesia.
The temple is said to have been built by King Airlangga, the first king of the Hindu-Buddhist kingdom of Kahuripan.
Exploring the Pawon Temple
“G08” by victorulijn is marked with CC BY-SA 2.0.
The Pawon Temple is a small temple located near the Borobudur Temple. It is believed to have been built in the 8th century and is dedicated to the god Vishnu. The temple is made of stone and has a thatched roof. It is surrounded by a small garden and is a popular tourist destination.
Learn about Borobudur Temple at Karmawibhangga Museum
The Karmawibhangga Museum, or the Borobudur Museum, is a museum part of the Borobudur temple compound. It is dedicated to the Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The museum was built in 1991 and opened to the public in 1992. The museum has five stories dedicated to different aspects of the Borobudur Temple: history, art, religion, philosophy, and geology.
The first story is dedicated to the history of the Borobudur Temple. It contains exhibits that tell how the temple was built and how it came to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The second story is dedicated to the art of the Borobudur Temple. It contains exhibits that show the different styles of art that were used in the construction of the temple. The third story is about the religion of the Borobudur Temple. It contains exhibits that explain the Buddhist religion and how it is practiced at the temple.
The fourth story is dedicated to the philosophy of the Borobudur Temple. It contains exhibits that discuss the teachings of Buddhism and how they are represented in the temple.
The fifth story is about the geology of the Borobudur Temple. It contains exhibits that show how the temple was built and how the landscape around it influenced its design.
See Artifacts at Samudra Raksa Museum
The Samudra Raksa Museum is dedicated to preserving the Borobudur Temple, located in Indonesia.
The museum houses a collection of artifacts and photographs related to the temple and information on its history and restoration. Visitors can also learn about the Buddhist teachings represented at Borobudur.
Some of the things to do in the Samudra Raksa Museum include looking at the ancient Javanese artifacts, admiring the beautiful architecture, and taking pictures with the different statues of Buddha.
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Attractions Near Borobudur Temple
Candi Prambanan
The Candi Prambanan is an 8th century Hindu temple located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and one of the largest Hindu temples in Southeast Asia.
The temple was dedicated to the Trimurti, the Hindu pantheon of three primary gods: Brahma, the creator; Vishnu, the rat; and Shiva, the destroyer. The temple was built during the reign of Rakai Pikatan, a vassal of the Sailendra Dynasty that ruled Mataram.
Sambisari Temple
The Sambisari Temple is an 8th-century Hindu temple located in the Yogyakarta province of Indonesia.
The temple was discovered in 1918 by a Dutch archaeological team and is notable for its unique architecture, which combines elements of both Hindu and Buddhist temples.
The temple is also decorated with intricate carvings, which depict scenes from the Hindu epic poem, the Ramayana.
Prambanan Temple
The Prambanan Temple is a Hindu temple located in Central Java, Indonesia.
It is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and one of the largest in Southeast Asia. The temple was built in the 9th century by the Sanjaya dynasty.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia and offers a guided tour.
The Prambanan Temple is dedicated to the Trimurti, the Hindu god, Vishnu, and Siva. The temple complex consists of three main temples, each with a central tower and two smaller buildings. The complex also includes around 200 smaller temples.
Candi Sukuh
Candi Sukuh is a fifteenth-century Javanese Hindu temple located on Mount Lawu, near Solo, Java. The temple is noted for its unique erotic sculptures. It was built around 1437 by Javanese King Ken Arok, the Singhasari Kingdom’s founder.
The temple is noted for its unique erotic sculptures. It was built in the 15th century by Javanese King Ken Arok, who founded the Singhasari Kingdom.
Ratu Boko Palace
Ratu Boko Palace is a palace located on the top of a hill near Borobudur Temple in Indonesia.
The palace was built in the 9th century as a royal residence for the Sailendra dynasty. It is thought that Ratu Boko Palace was used as a place of retreat by the kings and their families during the rainy season.
The Ratu Boko Palace complex consists of three main courtyards surrounded by a wall with gates.
The first courtyard is the outermost courtyard and contains many buildings, including a watchtower, gatehouse, and stables. The second courtyard is the main residential area of the palace and contains the kingatsen series of temples in Borobudur, Indonesia.
See the beauty of the temple and get your admission ticket now.
The temple complex consists of six square platforms, three circular platforms, and a central dome. The whole complex is adorned with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.
The temple is constructed from two types of stone; the bottom part is made from red brick, while the upper part is covered in grey limestone. The temple is thought to have been built in the 9th century, during the reign of King Samaratungga.
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Plaosan Temple
The Plaosan Temple is located just a few kilometers from the Borobudur Temple, and it is said that the same architect built the two temples.
The Plaosan Temple is smaller than the Borobudur Temple, but it is no less impressive. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and ituel Zane Batten.
The Plaosan Temple is located just a few kilometers from the Borobudur Temple, and it is said that the same architect built the two temples.
The Plaosan Temple is smaller than the Borobudur Temple, but it is no less impressive. The temple is dedicated to the Hinduudra Raksa, the guardian deity of the ocean.
Kedu Plain
The Kedu Plain is a highland area in the Central Java province of Indonesia. The site is located around the Mount Merapi volcano and is used for agriculture, particularly rice cultivation.
It is also known for its temples, including the Borobudur Temple.
The Kedu Plain is a large area of the volcanic plateau in the Central Java province of Indonesia. It is located between two mountains, Merapi and Merbabu.
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Nearby Restaurants to Borobudur Temple
Patio Colonial
The Patio Colonial is a great place to eat if you’re looking for some traditional Indonesian food.
The restaurant is located in the Borobudur Temple complex, and it’s a great place to enjoy the views of the temple while you eat. The food is reasonably priced, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
Stupa Restaurant by Plataran
The Stupa Restaurant by Plataran is located in the Borobudur Temple archaeological site, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia.
The restaurant offers an all-day dining experience with international and local cuisine. The restaurant has a garden setting with an open-air dining pavilion that overlooks the Borobudur Temple. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area that offers a variety of cocktails and wines.
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Amata Resto
The Amata Resto is one of the most popular places to eat in Borobudur.
It offers a wide range of local and international cuisine and has an excellent atmosphere for enjoying a meal. The restaurant is open from early in the morning until late at night, so there’s always something available to suit everyone’s taste.
Paksi Coffee House
The Paksi Coffee House is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee after touring the Borobudur Temple.
The coffee is delicious, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the views of the temple are amazing. I highly recommend visiting the Paksi Coffee House during your visit to Borobudur.
Borobudur Silver Resto
The Borobudur Silver Resto is a great place to eat in the Borobudur Temple area.
They have a wide variety of Indonesian food and some Western food options. The prices are very reasonable, and the service is good. I would recommend this restaurant if you’re visiting the Borobudur Temple area.
Best Place to Stay
Best Luxury Hotels
Plataran Borobudur
The Plataran Borobudur is a luxurious resort located in Borobudur, Indonesia. The resort offers guests an exclusive and unique experience with its stunning location overlooking the Borobudur Temple UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Features luxurious accommodation, a world-class spa, fine dining options, and extensive leisure facilities. The Plataran Borobudur is the perfect base to explore the Borobudur Temple and the surrounding area.
The Plataran Borobudur resort features a range of luxurious accommodation options, each with its private balcony or terrace overlooking the temple.
The rooms and suites are decorated in a traditional Javanese style and feature all the modern amenities that guests expect from a five-star resort.
MesaStila Resort and Spa
The MesaStila Resort and Spa is a luxurious resort located in Borobudur, Indonesia. The resort is situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The resort features 72 rooms, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar. It is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Plataran Heritage Borobudur Hotel
Plataran Heritage Borobudur Hotel is a luxurious hotel that is situated in the most idyllic location. It is located in the world-famous Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia.
The hotel offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the temple and its surroundings from the comfort of their room. The hotel has 21 rooms, each of which is decorated in a different style.
The rooms are all fitted with modern amenities and offer views of the temple complex. The hotel also has its own restaurant, which serves Indonesian and international cuisine.
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Best Mid-Range Hotels
Shankara Borobudur
The Shankara Borobudur hotel is a luxurious accommodation located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Borobudur, Indonesia.
This magnificent hotel is one of the world’s most significant Buddhist monuments, and the Shankara Borobudur hotel offers guests stunning views of this iconic structure from its prime location.
The end and Pawon temples, two other significant Buddhist sites, are also nearby, making the Shankara Borobudur an ideal base for exploring the area’s rich history and culture.
The hotel itself is a work of art, with its beautiful Javanese-style architecture and landscaped gardens.
The Accor Group ages the spacious rooms and suites; the Shankara Borobudur hotel offers 5-star amenities and services, including an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving Indonesian and international cuisine.
Manohara Borobudur
The Manohara Borobudur hotel is a luxurious accommodation that is located in the Borobudur temple UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The hotel has been designed to reflect the architecture and surroundings of the temple and offers guests a unique experience. Facilities include a spa, restaurant, pool, and rooms with stunning views of the temple.
The Nalaya Hotel & Resto
The Nalaya Hotel & Resto is an ideal place to stay during your visit to the Borobudur Temple. It offers comfortable accommodations, a delicious breakfast buffet, and a convenient location just minutes from the temple.
The hotel staff is friendly and helpful, and they go out of their way to make sure you have a pleasant stay. I would definitely recommend the Nalaya Hotel & Resto to anyone visiting Borobudur.
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Best Budget Hotels
Borobudur Bed & Breakfast
The Borobudur Bed & Breakfast is a great place to stay when visiting the Borobudur Temple. It’s a beautiful, traditional Javanese home that has been converted into bed and breakfast.
The rooms are comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The B&B is located within walking distance of the temple, one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist attractions.
If you’re looking for a place to stay that’s close to the Borobudur Temple, the Borobudur Bed & Breakfast is a great option.
Watumpang Homestay Borobudur
The Watumpang Homestay Borobudur is situated in the village of Watumpang, which is located in the district of Magelang, Central Java.
Magelang is a large city well-known for its many ancient temples, including the world-famous Borobudur Temple. The Watumpang Borobudur has situated just a short distance from the temple and offers guests the chance to experience traditional Javanese village life.
The homestay provides comfortable accommodation and excellent facilities and is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area.
Genthong Homestay
The Genthong Homestay is a great place to stay when visiting Borobudur Temple.
It’s a family-owned and operated business, and they offer clean and comfortable rooms at a very reasonable price. They also provide breakfast each morning, which is a nice bonus.
The owners are very friendly and helpful, and they can even help you arrange transportation to and from the temple. Overall, we had a great experience at the Genthong Homestay and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Borobudur Temple.
Rentals
Garden View Private Room
The Garden View Private Room in Borobudur is an excellent option for those looking for a quiet and peaceful place.
A beautiful garden surrounds the room, and guests can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings from their private balconies. The room also comes with all of the amenities one would expect, including air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a refrigerator.
Bramasole
The Bramasole rental in Borobudur is a beautiful and luxurious place to stay while visiting the area. It has all of the amenities you could want, including a pool and a Jacuzzi that provide a great stay experience in Borobudur.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and they’ll do everything they can to make sure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a place to stay while visiting Borobudur, staying at Bramasole is highly recommended.
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